Why Aippasi Pournami is important?
It is believed that on this day, Lord Shivan measured and distributed food to every living being, signifying His role as the eternal provider.
Worshipping Shivan during the Annabhishekam is said to bestow the same blessings as beholding one crore Shiva Lingams.
The full moon of Aippasi radiates with all sixteen kalas (divine aspects of the Moon), making it a perfect time to experience mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual upliftment.
Consuming Annabhishekam prasadam, especially when it includes bitter gourd (Paavakai) is believed to purify food-related karmas, promoting health, vitality, and inner strength.
Three Things to Avoid on Aippasi Pournami
- Do not lend rice or milk-based items.
- Avoid wasting or speaking ill of food.
- Ensure that no corner of your home remains in darkness; light lamps to invite divine energy and positivity.
What is Annabhishekam all about?
According to the Agamas and ancient scriptures, rice is a sacred symbol of life, prosperity, and divine sustenance. Lord Shivan, the embodiment of cosmic consciousness, is deeply pleased by Abhishekams, sacred bathing rituals performed with items like holy water, milk, ghee, sugarcane juice, curd, Vibhuti, and rice. Of these, rice holds a special place as it represents nourishment and abundance.
The ritual also reminds us of the deep connection between the five elements of nature and the food we eat. The seed is sown in the earth, nurtured by rainwater, ripened by the Sun’s energy, and carried by the wind, thus becoming a sacred offering born of nature’s union. Through Annabhishekam, devotees express heartfelt gratitude to Lord Shivan, the protector of these five elements and the sustainer of all life.
Participating in or offering Annabhishekam to Lord Shivan on Aippasi Pournami is believed to bestow immense spiritual and material benefits:
- Liberation from karmic burdens and attainment of inner peace.
- Prosperity in business and professional growth.
- Enhanced memory and focus on children who partake in the sacred prasadam.
- Blessings for fertile lands, abundant harvests, and security of grains.
- Divine grace for progeny and family harmony.
- Abundance of food, wealth, and wellbeing in the household.
As devotees gather to perform this sacred ritual, it reminds us that food, in its simplest form, is the language of God’s compassion.
Source / Image Credit : Tamilnadu Tourism, Shiva Murugan Temple, Concord, venkatraman-randomthoughts, Chennai Vastu